Oral Cancer Cause (OCC), a 501(c)3 non-profit, was founded in 2013 by Linda Miles and Robin Morrison in memory of Charlotte Estep, Linda Miles’ sister-in-law, and Mike Collins, Robin Morrison’s brother. Charlotte and Mike passed away in 2012 after suffering for several years from oral cancer. Both went undiagnosed for an extended amount of time, thereby allowing their disease to progress to an advanced and untreatable stage. Linda and Robin have a combined 80+ years experience in dentistry. Their shared passion for dentistry and saving lives is the OCC inspiration. By blending the knowledge of early detection and treatment; comprehensive oral exams along with dedicated dental/medical professionals; sponsoring partners; and dental/medical associations, OCC will make a difference in the lives of many oral cancer patients and their families.

Mission

OCC’s purpose is to improve the quality of life for oral cancer patients through financial support so that they may face the world with peace and dignity during and after medical treatment.

Vision

We envision the day of early oral cancer detection for all and a time when oral cancer patients can focus on recovery without the burden of monthly financial woes during treatment.

Funds raised by OCC will be allocated:

To provide financial help to patients and their families who face the challenges of oral cancer. Many times, the oral cancer patient undergoes extensive treatment and surgery rendering them unable to work, thereby creating a financial strain.

To create public awareness about the incidence of oral cancer and the necessity of oral cancer exams for early diagnosis and successful treatment.

The OCC helped cover the cost of daycare for my son while I was recovering from surgery and could not care for him myself. It was such a huge relief to not worry about how we would cope during that time. I can not thank them enough!

Amber Young

Oral Cancer Survivor

The OCC helped me pay for medical bills I had in 2014 and 2016. That was very helpful since our deductible is so high. There is so much cost that goes into treating cancer and the after effects of radiation and chemo. This was a true blessing and we really appreciated it.

Oral, head, and neck cancers are on the rise. This year, an estimated 61,760 people (45,330 men and 16,430 women) will develop oral, head, and neck cancer. Sadly, the treatment is often worse than the diagnosis—imagine not being able to speak, eat, or work. It is...

Getting to Know Charlotte by Linda Miles Charlotte Clark Estep married my only brother, Ted in 1959. I had the privilege of knowing her for fifty plus years. If anyone selected three words that most described Charlotte…they were caring, loving and kind. Mother of...

Mike Collins Mike Collins was the oldest sibling in our family. He was the big brother that we all loved, adored and respected. There were four of us, raised by loving parents who made sure we had a great upbringing. We are a very close family that values time we get...